Six Deliciously Dairy-Free Recipes for Shavuot

Kate Bigam Kaput

Shavuot is typically known as a dairy-heavy holiday, even though the tradition's origins are largely unknown. If you're looking for dairy recipes for the holiday, check out "13 Recipes for a Delightfully Dairy-Full Shavuot."

There are, however, also plenty of delicious, dairy-free recipe Shavuot options for vegans, lactose-free folks, and others who would simply prefer not to indulge in so much dairy but still want to enjoy the culinary spirit of the holiday. 

  1. Dairy-Free Cream Cheese TartletsJewish cooking expert Tina Wasserman writes, "I created this recipe for people who are sensitive or allergic to dairy products and gluten. If you do not have those food intolerances, this tartlet is also delicious made with regular cream cheese, dairy cream, and a graham cracker crust. Either way, enjoy!"
  2. Vegan Lokshen Kugel Just Like Mom's: Lisa Dawn Angerame shares her favorite recipe for noodle kugel, adapted from the dairy version her mom made. This recipe, which includes tofu cream cheese and raw cashew butter, makes enough kugel to fill a large casserole dish. 
  3. Vegan Coconut Rum Raisin Tapioca Pudding: Kenden Alfond, founder of the website Jewish Food Hero, says she's updated her tradition of eating animal-based dairy on Shavuot to align with her dietary preferences. "The added rum-soaked raisins makes the dessert fancy and may remind you of the ice cream flavor rum raisin," she says of this recipe. 
  4. Mango-Cardamom Sweet Brown Rice Pudding: Personal chef Katie Simmons shares a dairy-free, gluten-free Shavuot alternative that uses short-grain sweet brown rice as the base for a rich pudding. "Sweet brown rice takes on a creamy texture, yet keeps its chewy texture after simmering for awhile. It's ideal for a satisfying rice pudding!" she says.
  5. Vegan Blueberry Blintzes: Chef Mark Reinfeld, co-founder of Vegan Fusion, says blintzes evoke childhood memories of special meals with his family. "To make them from scratch, and to make them vegan, was a true revelation," he says. 
  6. Strawberry Ice CreamThis easy yet elegant recipe includes only three ingredients: sugar, egg whites, and fresh strawberries. According to chef Paula Shoyer, "I was skeptical about the simplicity of the preparation, but it really works and results in a light, refreshing, frozen dessert."